Runners Plan Unsanctioned Marathon In Beverly

CHICAGO - Residents who notice more runners than usual on the streets of Beverly and Morgan Park Saturday morning should know that some of them may be in the midst of completing a full marathon. The running group at Running Excels has organized an event around their usual Saturday morning run that provides both full and half marathon routes for anyone interested.

Beverly Lynch, owner of Running Excels, says the "BQBeverly" is the result of an idea that came from Chris Connelly, one of their loyal group runners. It's a free, unsanctioned and unofficial event that will offer water/Gatorade stations and aid stations along the route. Anyone interested can show up at Running Excels, 10328 S. Western Ave. on Saturday, Dec. 1 to run with the group.

"We're hoping to see a few more runners on the street," Lynch said.

The route will follow what many Running Excels runners know as "The Eagle" course, a 7-mile loop through the neighborhoods of Beverly and Morgan Park.

"The first loop is 7 miles clockwise, then counterclockwise will be another 6 to get the half-marathon," Lynch said. "Then just repeat that to get the full."

Those who would like to do the more reasonable 10K, can follow the 6-mile "Eagle" loop.

Lynch said neighborhood residents could expect to see more than 50 runners total between 7 a.m. and 2 p.m. if the weather is optimal and runners from different parts of the city show up.

"We've been very low key, but would like to invite more people to come out and check out our neighborhood," she said.

Although the event will be untimed, runner bibs will be available to help add to the race-like experience.

There will also be a post-race party next door to Running Excels at Sean's Rhino Bar & Grill, which will open at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday.

Photo courtesy of Running Excels